Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, look no further than this Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe. It combines perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy avocado, sweet and tangy mango salsa, and a zesty lime-chili sauce that brings everything together in a harmonious burst of texture and taste. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe offers a feast that feels both indulgent and refreshing, guaranteed to brighten up your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role, from the juicy, marinated shrimp to the creamy avocado that balances the tangy and spicy notes. These simple ingredients come together to create something truly special with amazing color and flavor contrast.

• Shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined, this protein cooks quickly and absorbs spices beautifully.
• Avocados (2 ripe): Diced for a creamy texture that complements the bright salsa perfectly.
• Mango (1 cup diced): Adds sweetness and juiciness, a key ingredient in the fresh salsa.
• Red onion (1/2 cup finely chopped): Provides crunch with a slightly sharp bite that balances the sweetness.
• Cilantro (1/2 cup chopped): Fresh and herbaceous, it lifts the flavors with a green brightness.
• Jalapeño pepper (1 diced): Brings just enough heat to keep things exciting without overwhelming.
• Lime juice (4 tablespoons total): Essential for brightening both the salsa and the lime-chili sauce.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to cook the shrimp, adding a hint of richness.
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor to the shrimp.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances savory depth.
• Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a mild heat to the shrimp seasoning.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the flavors perfectly.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle pungency.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Sweetens the lime-chili sauce to mellow the spice.
• Sour cream (1/4 cup): Provides creaminess in the sauce to tie all the flavors together.
• Chili flakes (1 teaspoon): Gives an extra kick to the sauce for those who like heat.
• Cooked rice (2 cups, optional): Serves as a comforting base if you want a heartier bowl.

How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Heat the skillet and prepare the shrimp

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil. This sets the stage for perfectly cooked shrimp that will be juicy and tender, absorbing the beautiful seasoning that follows.

Step 2: Season the shrimp

Combine chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl and coat the shrimp evenly. This spice blend brings warmth and a subtle smoky heat that really elevates the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Step 3: Cook the shrimp

Place the shrimp in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy, which makes a big difference in every bite.

Step 4: Set aside the shrimp

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and let them cool slightly, prepping them for the next step where they’ll be diced and tossed with our vibrant mango salsa.

Step 5: Make the mango salsa

In a medium bowl, mix diced mango, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice. This salsa is the heart of the dish, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice.

Step 6: Combine the shrimp and salsa

Dice the cooled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add it to the mango salsa. Gently toss to combine, ensuring every piece is coated with fresh flavors that make each spoonful irresistible.

Step 7: Prepare the lime-chili sauce

Whisk together sour cream, the remaining 2 tablespoons of lime juice, honey, and chili flakes in a small bowl. This creamy, tangy sauce brings everything together, adding a smooth contrast to the zesty shrimp and salsa.

Step 8: Assemble the bowls

If you’re using rice, divide it into serving bowls first. Then spoon the shrimp and mango salsa mixture on top, followed by a generous drizzle of the lime-chili sauce. The layers of textures and flavors will make every bite a celebration.

Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe: Final Touches

Finish with a garnish of extra cilantro or lime wedges for that fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience and enjoy this bowl bursting with bold, refreshing flavors.

How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Bright, fresh garnishes like additional cilantro leaves and lime wedges complement the strong, vibrant flavors of the main dish. Avocado slices or even a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds make great texture additions and visual appeal. These little extras can make your meal feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

This dish is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, grilled corn on the cob, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides keep things light and summery while adding extra crunch and cool freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bowls in colorful ceramic dishes or even hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun, festive touch. For a casual party, offer small individual bowls or lettuce cups as a handheld option. The vibrant colors of the shrimp, mango, and avocado will always steal the show, no matter how you plate it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and mango salsa separate from the avocado to avoid browning. Keep each in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Mixing them fresh before serving helps maintain the bright flavors and textures in your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe.

Freezing

This dish does not freeze very well because the texture of avocado and salsa changes upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp separately, without any salsa or sauce, for up to 1 month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying them out. Avoid reheating the avocado and salsa mixture; instead, prepare those fresh. Drizzle with lime-chili sauce again once warmed, and your bowl will taste nearly as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap shrimp for grilled tofu or chickpeas, and keep all other ingredient proportions the same. The vibrant mango salsa and lime-chili sauce will still deliver plenty of flavor and texture.

How spicy is the lime-chili sauce?

The sauce has a nice, mild heat from the chili flakes balanced by the sweetness of honey and creaminess of sour cream, making it pleasantly spicy without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the chili flakes to your preferred heat level.

Can I prepare any components in advance?

Yes, you can dice the mango, onions, and herbs for the salsa ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. Just add the jalapeño and lime juice fresh to retain brightness. The shrimp and sauce are best cooked and mixed on the day you plan to serve.

What type of rice works best if serving with rice?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work wonderfully here as bases because of their fluffy texture and subtle flavor. For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and nutrients.

Can I make the lime-chili sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or a creamy cashew sauce for a dairy-free alternative. The balance of lime, honey, and chili flakes will still shine through beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce Recipe a try because it brings together some of the most exciting flavors in such an effortless, joyful way. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or just treat yourself to a fresh, vibrant meal, this recipe has everything you need to make your day that much tastier. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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